Wilmington, North Carolina – Rain returns to the Cape Fear region midweek, and with it, the risk of slick roads and afternoon thunderstorms along U.S. Route 17 and Route 421.
According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, isolated showers could begin as early as 2 a.m. Wednesday, but the main impact will arrive Thursday with a 70% chance of widespread rain and possible thunderstorms. The strongest downpours are expected after 2 p.m. Thursday, with gusts up to 16 mph and localized rainfall between a quarter and half an inch. Drivers should prepare for wet pavement and potential ponding, especially during the evening commute.
Skies remain mostly sunny Tuesday and Wednesday during the day, with highs in the low 80s, making for pleasant outdoor conditions ahead of the weather shift. However, by Thursday, cloud cover thickens and chances for thunder increase — particularly during the afternoon and evening. Friday brings continued instability, with another round of showers and storms possible through the evening.
Residents are urged to charge devices, monitor local alerts, and avoid unnecessary travel during storms. Winds could gust up to 18 mph in some areas Wednesday and Thursday, increasing the risk of minor tree debris or brief outages.
Looking ahead, warmer air builds into the weekend. Saturday could reach 90°F with another chance of afternoon showers. Sunday and Monday keep the storm chance alive with highs in the upper 80s.
📅 Wilmington 5-Day Forecast: June 3–7
- Tuesday: Sunny, high 83°F. Light winds.
- Wednesday: Mostly sunny, high 83°F. 20% chance of rain late.
- Thursday: Showers likely, high 78°F. Thunder possible.
- Friday: Chance of thunderstorms, high 84°F. Muggy conditions.
- Saturday: Mostly sunny early, chance of afternoon storms, high 90°F.
